Richard Cullen Funderburg

Richard (Rick) Funderburg passed away peacefully on December 21, 2023 surrounded by his wife, kids and grandkids after a long illness. He was 75 years old. Rick was born in Eugene, Oregon on October 2, 1949. He grew up in Eugene and had a special love of trains and travel and as a kid went to many places because of his dad's employment with the railroad. Traveling with his mother, Irene Morrison Funderburg, was the highlight of his childhood. After graduating from Willamette High School, he was drafted into the Army and served two terms in Vietnam where he earned numerous awards. Upon return, he went to Lane Community College. In 1975 Rick met the love of his life, Sally, by the pool at his apartment in Eugene. They were married on March 20, 1976 in Reno, Nevada. In 1978 their daughter, Stephanie, was born and Rick graduated from the University of Oregon. Shortly after, his young family moved to Kennewick, Washington where he worked in management at Hanford Nuclear Facility until retirement. His son, Grant, was born in 1980 and Derek in 1982. He earned his Master’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Whitworth University in 1985.

Rick was very dedicated in all that he did: military, work, community, friendships and especially his family. He always put others, especially Sally and his kids, before himself. When he wasn't watching his kids' sporting events, attending school functions, or volunteering in Sally's classroom at Eastgate Elementary you might find him reading a book by the pool enjoying the home he took great care of. He loved having people over and would make them feel so welcome. In 2013 Rick and Sally moved to Salem, Oregon to be with kids and grandkids. Being retired, they had a chance to travel and spend more time at their house in Pacific City which was their special place. Rick felt fortunate to welcome Aden (Hagg) and Lauren (Scheel) as daughter-in-laws. Having all of his kids and grandkids in Salem was a great joy for him.

Rick will always be remembered as a very special person as his family, friends and anyone who met him would know. His love is shown through his responsible and caring children and grandchildren and the amazing friendships he's built over the years. He is survived by his wife, Sally Funderburg, daughter Stephanie Funderburg grandkids Laura and Eric, son Grant Funderburg (Lauren Scheel Funderburg) grandkids Miles, Max, and Jack and son Derek Funderburg (Aden Hagg Funderburg) grandkids Isla and Dylan and very special niece Erin Reed. Rick went out of his way to bring a smile to everyone’s faces through his kindness and humor and we hope to keep this legacy alive. Rick's passing leaves a hole in our hearts, but the gap is continually filled with the endless special memories we all have being with him. Rick was preceded in death by his nephew, Warrant Officer One, Eric Funderburg.